Photonic Quantum Systems

The Photonic Quantum Systems department aims to advance applied quantum technology through a unique combination of systems thinking and cutting-edge photonic technologies.

We constantly challenge the state of the art, creating innovative solutions to practical problems through dedicated collaboration with academic and industry partners. Our dynamic team of international researchers contributes to several facets of the ongoing quantum revolution—from novel designs for quantum photonic components to creative solutions for practical challenges in sensing, information processing, and communications, as well as the transfer into reliable and field-ready quantum technology.

Our work is highly appreciated by peers and customers, as evidenced by numerous international research project collaborations and a proven track record of innovation reflected in numerous patents and several key publications.

Our Service Portfolio

Our service portfolio is centered around the development of photonic quantum technology and its application to quantum information processing, communications, and sensing. Our unique value proposition lies in the combination of a system-level perspective on quantum information science and technology, complemented by the world-leading competencies in photonic technology and applied optics at Fraunhofer IOF.

Consulting and training from top-level management to detailed technical masterclasses
Integration and system development
- Metropolitan-range QKD solutions that can be deployed in a matter of hours
- Long-Distance entanglement distribution in quantum networks
- Quantum imaging and sensing solutions for underdeveloped wavelength ranges
- Entanglement-enhanced fluorescence lifetime imaging
Components and subsystem development
- Design and fabrication of quantum light sources for various applications
- Design and integration of space-qualified quantum hardware prototypes
- Solutions for synchronization, polarization, and stabilization in quantum networks
- Characterization and testing of quantum light sources and detectors
Provision of link infrastructure for joint research activities
Use-case development and feasibility studies on photonic architectures and protocols

© Fraunhofer IOF
We offer characterization of your Quantum light sources and detectors by our Quantum experts.

Our Research Groups

Our technological developments are currently being driven forward in the following groups:

Satellite Quantum Networks (SQN)

In SQN, we concentrate on the development and adaptation of cutting-edge quantum technologies tailored for a wide range of applications in the space industry including the designing and creation of entangled photon sources.

SQN-Page

Quantum Sensing and Imaging (QSI)

The QSI group specializes in quantum imaging and sensing, leveraging cutting-edge technologies for applications in medicine, environmental monitoring, material science, and beyond.

QSI-Page

Quantum Cryptosystems (QXS)

The QXS group focuses on quantum information processing and the development of system architectures for a broad range of discrete-variable quantum key distribution protocols.

QXS-Page

Multimode Quantum Photonics (MQP)

The MQP group specializes in processing quantum information using various photonic degrees of freedom. We bridge theoretical concepts and practical applications for Quantum communication and computing.

MQP-Page

Terrestrial Quantum Networks (TQN)

The TQN team develops photonic systems for applications in terrestrial quantum communication. Our solutions range from entangled photon sources to analyzer modules, considering future applications in quantum networks.

TQN-Page

Our Competencies and Expertise

To date, our contributions range from new approaches in quantum optics and quantum information to engineering solutions for satellite-based quantum networks. We have successfully conducted quantum key distribution over deployed free-space and fiber links and developed innovative solutions for multi-user entanglement distribution, high-dimensional quantum communication, and quantum sensing.

Our advanced system components are deployed in real-world application scenarios using our unique link infrastructure. Among other activities, we collaborate with German partner institutes on future-proof communications for federal agencies via quantum key distribution in the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR) project QuNET.

In the European–Canadian project HyperSpace, we bring together leading researchers to develop a roadmap for global, satellite-based quantum communications. This requires space-qualified, high-performance photon-pair sources, which IOF develops, inter alia, for the European Space Agency (ESA).

Through these and other initiatives, we advance the expansion of a European Quantum Communication Infrastructure (EuroQCI) and strengthen European resilience.

© Fraunhofer IOF
In the European-Canadian project HyperSpace, we advance the development of a global, satellited-based Quantum communication network.

Furthermore, in the BMFTR project PhoQuant, our research team is developing a photonic quantum computer based on Gaussian boson sampling, which will subsequently be offered as a cloud service. Aiming for low-noise and efficient imaging, we are developing—in the BMFTR project QUANCER, quantum infrared microscope for tumor-cell classification in collaboration with partners from industry, academia and end users.

We offer outstanding expertise in the following areas:

Quantum hardware development and integration
Link technologies for Quantum applications
Application of Quantum technologies in real-life scenarios

© Fraunhofer IOF
Modular network for quantum optical applications.

Markets and Applications for Photonic Quantum Systems

We develop tailored photonic solutions to deliver quantum advantage. Our secure quantum communication systems serve federal and space agencies, critical infrastructure, and individual users requiring safe transmission of medical or financial data. Banks and the pharmaceutical industry benefit from fast, efficient quantum computing enabled by scalable, room-temperature photonic quantum computers. Quantum-enhanced, low-noise, highly sensitive imaging and sensing solutions are employed in medical diagnostics and hold promise for agricultural and other applications.

Space industry and agencies
Federal agencies
Financial sector
Pharmaceutical industry
Medical sector

© Fraunhofer IOF
Model of a non-degenerate, entangled photon pair source with double beam displacer (150 x 150 x 50 mm3). For space applications.

Do you have any questions about our services? We will be happy to talk to you!

In a personal meeting, we will advise you on our (individual) range of services and our core competencies. Get in touch with us.

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We are always on the lookout for creative minds and committed people who will work with us to develop innovative solutions with light. Visit our job portal or send us an unsolicited application:

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